Checking Power Steering Pump

[D_E_Bishop]

I have a 1995 Sidekick and the DW tells me that the power steering isn't so power. The shop I take the RV to has suggested flusing the system and replacing the pump. Both things seem pretty simple tasks and I know I can do it but how do I know the pump is the problem?

None of the manuals suggest any way to test if the pump is not putting out the proper pressure.

I want to flush the brake system and figured if I'm going to do one might as well do both at the same time. Saves setup and cleanup time and mess.

I've got the 24 valve 1600 with 4 wheel drive and automatic.

[midnightsadie]

I

[enblethen]

I do not remember if my 1995 and my 2005 have the same pump and steering.
The 2005 book says for the first item for "steering wheel feels heavy" is that the fluid dteteriorated, low viscosity or mixed fluid. Correction is to replace fluid.
If this happens only momentarily it says to check steering belt and to purge air from system. Fill reservoir, run engine, shut off engine. then start purge procedure. Purge is done by fully turning the steering wheel lock to lock first with engine off and then with engine on.
Parts breadown indicates there is a flow control valve in the pump accessed via a plug. There could be debris in the valve. This is also called a "relief valve". Fluid is suppose to be Dextron II, Dextron III A/T fluid in 2005 model

[gbopp]

Did you check the Suzuki Forums. Maybe they have some useful information.